Load it the way the machine expects
- Scrape off food scraps, but you do not need to rinse plates fully. Modern detergents work best with some residue to act on.
- Do not let large items block the spray arms. Check they can spin freely before starting.
- Angle bowls and cups downwards so water drains rather than pools.
- Keep sharp knives and delicate items out, or follow the manufacturer's guidance.
Clean the filter every few weeks
The filter at the bottom of the tub catches food particles and stops them clogging the pump. When it fills up, the dishwasher cleans poorly, drains slowly and starts to smell. Take it out, rinse it under running water and use a soft brush to remove grease. Follow the manual for removing it.
Check the spray arms
Small holes along the spray arms clog with limescale and food particles. If dishes come out gritty or not cleaned in certain spots, take the arms off and clear the holes with a toothpick or a soft brush.
Look after it in hard water conditions
Limescale is a common issue in many Dubai homes. It leaves white film on glasses, dulls the interior and can coat the heating element. Many dishwashers have a built-in water softener that uses dishwasher salt, and a rinse aid dispenser. Keep both topped up, and set the water hardness level as the manual describes. Run a descaling or machine-cleaner cycle about once a month.
Deal with smells
Odours are almost always trapped food and grease. Clean the filter, wipe the door seal and the area around it, and run a hot cycle with a dishwasher cleaner. Leaving the door slightly ajar after the last cycle of the day lets the interior dry and discourages mould and bacteria.
Use the right products
Use detergent made for dishwashers, never washing-up liquid, which causes heavy suds and can lead to overflow. If you use tablets, make sure they dissolve fully. If you see residue from the tablet, the water may not be hot enough or the dispenser may be blocked.
Signs it needs a technician
- Water left standing in the bottom after the cycle
- The door will not latch or the machine will not start
- Dishes remain wet and cold at the end of a cycle, which can point to a heating problem
- Leaks from the door or underneath
- A grinding or humming sound from the pump
- Error codes that return after a reset
A pooling puddle or a leak should be dealt with promptly, as water can damage kitchen cabinets and flooring.
When to call us
If your dishwasher is leaving dishes dirty, not draining or showing a fault code, our dishwasher repair team can diagnose it at home. For similar care advice on another machine, see how to keep your washing machine running longer.
